Running is an excellent way to get your exercise and since it requires nothing more than a little will power, a place to run, and a good pair of sneakers, it is one of the most popular forms of exercise. While running is a relatively simple activity, the repetitive stress experienced by regular runners can increase the occurrence of a variety of problems with your feet and ankles including shin splints, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel pain. Many running related-problems can be avoided or minimized by following some basic guidelines.
Tips to help avoid running injuries:
- Invest in a good pair of running shoes—This is probably the most important advice of all in preventing running injuries. A variety of shock absorbing and supportive running shoes are available depending upon the specific activity, so seek expert assistance for proper fitting from a knowledgeable sales person.
- Stretching and warming up—Equally as important as a good pair of running shoes, proper warm up will get the blood moving and limber up tendons and muscles which are essential to avoiding injury.
- Take it slow—Many people suffer a running injury because they start off exercising too aggressively after a long period of being a couch potato. Increase your workout gradually over a period of weeks and months to strengthen your legs and feet and prevent common injuries.
- Drink plenty of fluids—Staying properly hydrated, especially in hot weather, is very important for avoiding muscle cramping and other problems.
- Orthotic inserts—Shoe inserts specially made by your podiatrist can be used to correct problems with over or under pronation, and for injury treatment and prevention.
Experienced runners and novices alike will undoubtedly experience a foot or ankle injury at some point, and it is important to see a foot care professional for those instances.
Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX, is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.